Commercial bonfires and smoke

Waste produced on any construction site or unoccupied residential property, should be removed by skip or vehicle by a licensed waste carrier.

If this is not possible, only untreated organic waste can be disposed of on a controlled fire. This must remain supervised at all times.

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 requires that all businesses must dispose of their controlled waste in a way that does not cause environmental pollution or harm to human health. A person who commits an offence by causing a nuisance from ash or smoke, may be liable to a maximum penalty of £20,000 or imprisonment.

It is also an offence under the Clean Air Act 1993 to emit dark or black smoke, which is subject to a £20,000 fine and a criminal record.